Our Greatest Teachers

Yesterday we had our memorial service for the people who graciously donated their bodies in order for us future health professionals to learn. I can’t believe that it has already been two months since gross anatomy finished. Even though I am one test away from finishing my first class of the “spring” semester, (and much of the genetics and biochemistry has faded into the recesses of my memory,) anatomy still seems unsullied. Perhaps it is due to the fact that everyone was so emotionally invested in the class, or the friendships and camaraderie that formed around the tables, but I am fairly certain that no one is going to forget the experience of gross anatomy soon. In fact, I’m almost certain we never will.

You may have noticed I was very reluctant to actually write about my experience in anatomy while I was going through it (I did write a preliminary blog, but aside from this I only made fleeting remarks surrounding anatomy). I tried to justify it to myself by reminding myself about the very stern warning one of the professors gave us the first day of lab (basically, we would be expelled if we so much as thought about dishonoring our cadaver. This notification scared the heck out of me, and dissuaded me from writing about anything laboratory related). But in all honesty, I still don’t know how to effectively and concisely describe anatomy lab.

I must have started (and almost immediately deleted) dozen of blog entries only to find I had no way to accurately convey my thoughts. Words akin to “incredible, frustrating, funny, terrifying, inspiring, humbling, disgusting, exciting, etc” don’t even begin to give the proper reverence to what we went through. Gross anatomy changes us-it helps to glue on wings so that we have the opportunity to soar after graduation.

That’s why I was so pleased yesterday. We were able to honor those who allowed us to have that incredible opportunity. My classmates played music, read poetry, and we all had a chance to reflect on the unbelievable fortune that was anatomy. I think we all were able to see how extraordinarily lucky we were to have the privilege to start on the journey toward becoming physicians. My lab mates and I also had a chance to sign a card to the family of our donor. I don’t know if they will choose to open and receive it, but simply writing to the family of our cadaver made me admire her even more.

So to the donor at table 27, I want to say thank you. We never met in person, but I only wish that I can possess and utilize a mere half of the selflessness and dedication you gave to us budding medical professionals. While I have had some wonderful teachers during my time in school, you will always be the professor that taught me the most. I am changed person because of you. Thank you for giving me that opportunity.